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San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle has reportedly identified a major defensive addition he’d like general manager John Lynch to pursue: Los Angeles Chargers pass rusher Khalil Mack.
According to NBC Sports Bay Area reporter Matt Maiocco, Lynch revealed that Kittle approached him about the possibility of acquiring the veteran edge defender.
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The reported conversation comes as San Francisco considers potential reinforcements ahead of the November 10 NFL trade deadline.
Kittle’s suggestion makes sense given the importance of a reliable pass rush during a postseason push. The 49ers have dealt with significant injuries along their defensive line, raising questions about whether their current group can remain effective throughout the season.
Adding an experienced defender could help address those concerns before the playoffs arrive.
Mack could provide an immediate boost. The veteran has established himself as one of the NFL’s premier defensive players throughout his career, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and three first-team All-Pro honors.
His combination of strength and experience makes him a potentially valuable addition for a team looking to improve its championship chances.
Despite the Chargers’ difficult start, Mack has continued to demonstrate his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His three sacks through the opening five games suggest he can still contribute at a high level, even as Los Angeles struggles to find consistent success.
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Mack’s experience could be particularly valuable for a 49ers defense dealing with availability concerns.
There’s also a history between Mack and Lynch. San Francisco pursued the pass rusher when he was with the Raiders in 2018, but Chicago ultimately acquired him in a blockbuster trade. A move to the Bay Area would finally bring the two sides together.
However, completing a deal won't necessarily be straightforward. Mack signed a one-year, $18 million contract with the Chargers in March 2026, meaning San Francisco would need to evaluate the financial commitment alongside the draft capital required to acquire him.
With the November 10 deadline approaching, the 49ers must decide whether adding a veteran at this stage represents the best use of their resources.
There’s another complication: Mack has made it clear that his attention remains on playing football in Los Angeles rather than entertaining trade speculation.
Despite the Chargers’ winless start, the veteran has expressed his commitment to the organization and its efforts to turn the season around.
“I just got total faith in this team and this organization,” Mack recently stated when asked about trade rumors.
Nevertheless, Los Angeles’ struggles could eventually force management to reconsider its position.
If the Chargers continue losing, trading an established veteran nearing the end of his contract could become a more attractive option, particularly if another team offers suitable compensation.
Kittle’s reported conversation with Lynch signals interest rather than any sort of impending deal, as San Francisco must first determine whether Mack is the right fit and whether the Chargers are willing to negotiate.